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rétracter

to retract

verb reh-trahk-TEH Rare
Communication Speech

Origin: Latin retractare (to draw back, to reconsider)

Also means

to withdraw (a statement)

Usage Note

Rétracter can refer physically to something pulling or drawing back (un muscle qui se rétracte — a muscle that retracts), but is most common in the reflexive se rétracter, meaning to take back a statement or confession. Il s'est rétracté devant le tribunal means he withdrew his statement in court. This reflexive use is the one learners encounter most.

Examples

"Le témoin s'est rétracté lors de l'audience."

Natural Translation

The witness retracted his statement during the hearing.

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